Sensor for an article of footwear

ABSTRACT

An article of footwear or an article of apparel can include provisions for facilitating the use of a sensor device and protecting the sensor device from external particles or fluid. The sensor device can include a conduit for moving air through the sensor device from one portion of the sensor device to another portion of the sensor device. An elastic membrane can be attached to an opening formed in the sensor device. The elastic membrane can deform in response to changes in air pressure within the sensor device.

BACKGROUND

The present embodiments relate generally to articles of footwear andmethods of manufacturing an article of footwear.

Articles of footwear generally include two primary elements: an upperand a sole structure. The upper is often formed from a plurality ofmaterial elements (e.g., textiles, polymer sheet layers, foam layers,leather, synthetic leather) that are stitched or adhesively bondedtogether to form a void on the interior of the footwear for comfortablyand securely receiving a foot. More particularly, the upper forms astructure that extends over instep and toe areas of the foot, alongmedial and lateral sides of the foot, and around a heel area of thefoot. The upper may also incorporate a lacing system to adjust the fitof the footwear, as well as permitting entry and removal of the footfrom the void within the upper. Likewise, some articles of apparel mayinclude various kinds of closure systems for adjusting the fit of theapparel.

SUMMARY

In one aspect, the present disclosure is directed to an article offootwear comprising an upper and a sole structure, where the solestructure includes a cavity, and a force sensitive resistor thatincludes an active portion joined to a tail portion. The force sensitiveresistor includes a plurality of layers, each of the plurality of layersbeing elongated in a substantially horizontal direction. In addition,the plurality of layers comprises a top substrate layer, a firstadhesive layer, and a bottom substrate layer, where the first adhesivelayer is disposed between the top substrate layer and the bottomsubstrate layer. A shaft extends in a substantially vertical directionthrough at least the bottom substrate layer, the shaft leading to anopening formed in an outermost surface of the bottom substrate layer.Furthermore, a horizontal passageway extends in a substantiallyhorizontal direction from the active portion to the tail portion, thehorizontal passageway being in fluid communication with the shaft. Thehorizontal passageway provides a first flowpath through the forcesensitive resistor, and the shaft provides a second flowpath through theforce sensitive resistor. In addition, an elastic membrane is securedover the opening, the elastic membrane deforming in response toincreased air pressure in the shaft.

In another aspect, the present disclosure is directed to an article offootwear comprising a sole structure with a cavity formed in the solestructure, and a force sensitive resistor including an active portionjoined to a tail portion. The force sensitive resistor includes aplurality of layers, where each of the plurality of layers comprises asubstantially two-dimensional material. In addition, the plurality oflayers comprises a top substrate layer, a first adhesive layer, and abottom substrate layer, where the first adhesive layer is disposedbetween the top substrate layer and the bottom substrate layer. There isa shaft extending in a substantially vertical direction through at leasttwo of the plurality of layers in the tail portion, the shaft leading toa first opening formed in an outermost surface of the force sensitiveresistor, and the first opening being covered by an elastic membrane. Inaddition, a horizontal passageway extends in a substantially horizontaldirection from the active portion to the tail portion, the horizontalpassageway being in fluid communication with the shaft. Furthermore, theelastic membrane is configured to deform and expand in a direction awayfrom the first adhesive layer, thereby transitioning from a neutralstate to an actuated state. The elastic membrane further includes afirst surface area in the neutral state and a second surface area in theactuated state, the second surface area being greater than the firstsurface area.

In another aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a method ofmoving air in a force sensitive resistor, the force sensitive resistorincluding a top substrate layer, a first adhesive layer, and a bottomsubstrate layer, the force sensitive resistor comprising an activeportion and a tail portion. The method comprises moving air from theactive portion into a horizontal passageway formed in the forcesensitive resistor when the active portion is compressed, and moving airfrom the active portion to a vertical channel disposed in the bottomsubstrate layer in the tail portion. The method also includes expandingan elastic membrane that is exposed to increased air pressure.

Other systems, methods, features, and advantages of the embodiments willbe, or will become, apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art uponexamination of the following figures and detailed description. It isintended that all such additional systems, methods, features, andadvantages be included within this description and this summary, bewithin the scope of the embodiments, and be protected by the followingclaims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The embodiments can be better understood with reference to the followingdrawings and description. The components in the figures are notnecessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustratingthe principles of the invention. Moreover, in the figures, likereference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout thedifferent views.

FIG. 1 is an isometric side view of an embodiment of an article offootwear and a sensor device;

FIG. 2 is an isometric top view of an embodiment of a sensor device;

FIG. 3 is an exploded view of an embodiment of a sensor device;

FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a sensordevice;

FIG. 5 is an isometric view of an embodiment of a flowpath through aportion of a sensor device;

FIG. 6 is an isometric view of an embodiment of a flowpath through aportion of a sensor device;

FIG. 7 is an isometric view of an embodiment of flowpaths through aportion of a sensor device;

FIG. 8 is an isometric view of an embodiment of a sensor device and asole structure;

FIG. 9 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an embodiment of asensor device disposed in a sole structure;

FIG. 10 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an embodiment of asensor device disposed in a sole structure;

FIG. 11 is a lateral cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a sensordevice disposed in a sole structure;

FIG. 12 is a lateral cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a sensordevice disposed in a sole structure;

FIG. 13 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an embodiment of asensor device disposed in a sole structure;

FIG. 14 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an embodiment of asensor device disposed in a sole structure;

FIG. 15 is a lateral cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a sensordevice with a cover portion and a securing layer disposed in a solestructure;

FIG. 16 is a lateral cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a sensordevice with a cover portion and a securing layer disposed in a solestructure;

FIG. 17 is an isometric view of a sensor device with a securing layer;

FIG. 18 is an isometric view of a sensor device with a securing layer,and

FIG. 19 is a flow chart depicting a method of moving air in a sensordevice.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following discussion and accompanying figures disclose articles offootwear and a method of assembly of an article of footwear. Conceptsassociated with the footwear disclosed herein may be applied to avariety of athletic footwear types, including running shoes, basketballshoes, soccer shoes, baseball shoes, football shoes, and golf shoes, forexample. Accordingly, the concepts disclosed herein apply to a widevariety of footwear types.

To assist and clarify the subsequent description of various embodiments,various terms are defined herein. Unless otherwise indicated, thefollowing definitions apply throughout this specification (including theclaims). For consistency and convenience, directional adjectives areemployed throughout this detailed description corresponding to theillustrated embodiments.

The term “longitudinal,” as used throughout this detailed descriptionand in the claims, refers to a direction extending a length of acomponent. For example, a longitudinal direction of an article offootwear extends between a forefoot region and a heel region of thearticle of footwear. The term “forward” is used to refer to the generaldirection in which the toes of a foot point, and the term “rearward” isused to refer to the opposite direction, i.e., the direction in whichthe heel of the foot is facing.

The term “lateral direction,” as used throughout this detaileddescription and in the claims, refers to a side-to-side directionextending a width of a component. In other words, the lateral directionmay extend between a medial side and a lateral side of an article offootwear, with the lateral side of the article of footwear being thesurface that faces away from the other foot, and the medial side beingthe surface that faces toward the other foot.

The term “side,” as used in this specification and in the claims, refersto any portion of a component facing generally in a lateral, medial,forward, or rearward direction, as opposed to an upward or downwarddirection.

The term “vertical,” as used throughout this detailed description and inthe claims, refers to a direction generally perpendicular to both thelateral and longitudinal directions. For example, in cases where a soleis planted flat on a ground surface, the vertical direction may extendfrom the ground surface upward. It will be understood that each of thesedirectional adjectives may be applied to individual components of asole. The term “upward” refers to the vertical direction heading awayfrom a ground surface, while the term “downward” refers to the verticaldirection heading toward the ground surface. Similarly, the terms “top,”“upper,” and other similar terms refer to the portion of an objectsubstantially furthest from the ground in a vertical direction, and theterms “bottom,” “lower,” and other similar terms refer to the portion ofan object substantially closest to the ground in a vertical direction.

The “interior” of a shoe refers to space that is occupied by a wearer'sfoot when the shoe is worn. The “inner side” of a panel or other shoeelement refers to the face of that panel or element that is (or will be)oriented toward the shoe's interior in a completed shoe. The “outerside” or “exterior” of an element refers to the face of that elementthat is (or will be) oriented away from the shoe's interior in thecompleted shoe. In some cases, the inner side of an element may haveother elements between that inner side and the interior in the completedshoe. Similarly, an outer side of an element may have other elementsbetween that outer side and the space external to the completed shoe.Further, the terms “inward” and “inwardly” shall refer to the directiontoward the interior of the shoe, and the terms “outward” and “outwardly”shall refer to the direction toward the exterior of the shoe.

For purposes of this disclosure, the foregoing directional terms, whenused in reference to an article of footwear, shall refer to the articleof footwear when sitting in an upright position, with the sole facinggroundward, that is, as it would be positioned when worn by a wearerstanding on a substantially level surface.

In addition, for purposes of this disclosure, the term “fixedlyattached” shall refer to two components joined in a manner such that thecomponents may not be readily separated (for example, without destroyingone or both of the components). Exemplary modalities of fixed attachmentmay include joining with permanent adhesive, rivets, stitches, nails,staples, welding or other thermal bonding, or other joining techniques.In addition, two components may be “fixedly attached” by virtue of beingintegrally formed, for example, in a molding process.

For purposes of this disclosure, the term “removably attached” or“removably inserted” shall refer to the joining of two components or acomponent and an element in a manner such that the two components aresecured together, but may be readily detached from one another. Examplesof removable attachment mechanisms may include hook and loop fasteners,friction fit connections, interference fit connections, threadedconnectors, cam-locking connectors, compression of one material withanother, and other such readily detachable connectors.

Referring to FIG. 1, an isometric side view of an article of footwear(“article”) 100 that is configured with a tensioning system 150 isdepicted. In the current embodiment, article 100 is shown in the form ofan athletic shoe, such as a running shoe. However, in other embodiments,tensioning system 150 may be used with any other kind of footwearincluding, but not limited to, hiking boots, soccer shoes, footballshoes, sneakers, running shoes, cross-training shoes, rugby shoes,basketball shoes, baseball shoes as well as other kinds of shoes.Moreover, in some embodiments, article 100 may be configured for usewith various kinds of non-sports-related footwear, including, but notlimited to, slippers, sandals, high-heeled footwear, loafers as well asany other kinds of footwear. As discussed in further detail below, atensioning system may not be limited to footwear and in otherembodiments a tensioning system and/or components associated with atensioning system could be used with various kinds of apparel, includingclothing, sportswear, sporting equipment and other kinds of apparel. Instill other embodiments, a tensioning system may be used with braces,such as medical braces.

As noted above, for consistency and convenience, directional adjectivesare employed throughout this detailed description. Article 100 may bedivided into three general regions along a longitudinal axis 180: aforefoot region 105, a midfoot region 125, and a heel region 145.Forefoot region 105 generally includes portions of article 100corresponding with the toes and the joints connecting the metatarsalswith the phalanges. Midfoot region 125 generally includes portions ofarticle 100 corresponding with an arch area of the foot. Heel region 145generally corresponds with rear portions of the foot, including thecalcaneus bone. Forefoot region 105, midfoot region 125, and heel region145 are not intended to demarcate precise areas of article 100. Rather,forefoot region 105, midfoot region 125, and heel region 145 areintended to represent general relative areas of article 100 to aid inthe following discussion. Since various features of article 100 extendbeyond one region of article 100, the terms forefoot region 105, midfootregion 125, and heel region 145 apply not only to article 100, but alsoto the various features of article 100.

Referring to FIG. 1, for reference purposes, a lateral axis 190 ofarticle 100, and any components related to article 100, may extendbetween a medial side 165 and a lateral side 185 of the foot.Additionally, in some embodiments, longitudinal axis 180 may extend fromforefoot region 105 to a heel region 145. It will be understood thateach of these directional adjectives may also be applied to individualcomponents of an article of footwear, such as an upper and/or a solemember. In addition, a vertical axis 170 refers to the axisperpendicular to a horizontal surface defined by longitudinal axis 180and lateral axis 190.

Article 100 may include upper 102 and sole structure 104. Generally,upper 102 may be any type of upper. In particular, upper 102 may haveany design, shape, size and/or color. For example, in embodiments wherearticle 100 is a basketball shoe, upper 102 could be a high top upperthat is shaped to provide high support on an ankle. In embodiments wherearticle 100 is a running shoe, upper 102 could be a low top upper.

As shown in FIG. 1, upper 102 may include one or more material elements(for example, meshes, textiles, foam, leather, and synthetic leather),which may be joined to define an interior void 118 configured to receivea foot of a wearer. The material elements may be selected and arrangedto impart properties such as light weight, durability, air permeability,wear resistance, flexibility, and comfort. Upper 102 may define anopening 130 through which a foot of a wearer may be received intointerior void 118.

At least a portion of sole structure 104 may be fixedly attached toupper 102 (for example, with adhesive, stitching, welding, or othersuitable techniques) and may have a configuration that extends betweenupper 102 and the ground. Sole structure 104 may include provisions forattenuating ground reaction forces (that is, cushioning and stabilizingthe foot during vertical and horizontal loading). In addition, solestructure 104 may be configured to provide traction, impart stability,and control or limit various foot motions, such as pronation,supination, or other motions.

In some embodiments, sole structure 104 may be configured to providetraction for article 100. In addition to providing traction, solestructure 104 may attenuate ground reaction forces when compressedbetween the foot and the ground during walking, running or otherambulatory activities. The configuration of sole structure 104 may varysignificantly in different embodiments to include a variety ofconventional or non-conventional structures. In some cases, theconfiguration of sole structure 104 can be configured according to oneor more types of ground surfaces on which sole structure 104 may beused.

For example, the disclosed concepts may be applicable to footwearconfigured for use on any of a variety of surfaces, including indoorsurfaces or outdoor surfaces. The configuration of sole structure 104may vary based on the properties and conditions of the surfaces on whicharticle 100 is anticipated to be used. For example, sole structure 104may vary depending on whether the surface is hard or soft. In addition,sole structure 104 may be tailored for use in wet or dry conditions.

In some embodiments, sole structure 104 may be configured for aparticularly specialized surface or condition. The proposed footwearupper construction may be applicable to any kind of footwear, such asbasketball, soccer, football, and other athletic activities.Accordingly, in some embodiments, sole structure 104 may be configuredto provide traction and stability on hard indoor surfaces (such ashardwood), soft, natural turf surfaces, or on hard, artificial turfsurfaces. In some embodiments, sole structure 104 may be configured foruse on multiple different surfaces.

As will be discussed further below, in different embodiments, solestructure 104 may include different components. For example, solestructure 104 may include an outsole, a midsole, a cushioning layer,and/or an insole. In addition, in some cases, sole structure 104 caninclude one or more cleat members or traction elements that areconfigured to increase traction with a ground surface.

In some embodiments, sole structure 104 may include multiple components,which may individually or collectively provide article 100 with a numberof attributes, such as support, rigidity, flexibility, stability,cushioning, comfort, reduced weight, or other attributes. In someembodiments, sole structure 104 may include an insole/sockliner, amidsole 151, and a ground-contacting outer sole member (“outsole”) 162,which may have an exposed, ground-contacting lower surface. In somecases, however, one or more of these components may be omitted.Furthermore, in some embodiments, an insole may be disposed in the voiddefined by upper 102. The insole may extend through each of forefootregion 105, midfoot region 125, and heel region 145, and between lateralside 185 and medial side 165 of article 100. The insole may be formed ofa deformable (for example, compressible) material, such as polyurethanefoams, or other polymer foam materials. Accordingly, the insole may, byvirtue of its compressibility, provide cushioning, and may also conformto the foot in order to provide comfort, support, and stability.

Midsole 151 may be fixedly attached to a lower area of upper 102, forexample, through stitching, adhesive bonding, thermal bonding (such aswelding), or other techniques, or may be integral with upper 102.Midsole 151 may be formed from any suitable material having theproperties described above, according to the activity for which article100 is intended. In some embodiments, midsole 151 may include a foamedpolymer material, such as polyurethane (PU), ethyl vinyl acetate (EVA),or any other suitable material that operates to attenuate groundreaction forces as sole structure 104 contacts the ground duringwalking, running, or other ambulatory activities.

Midsole 151 may extend through each of forefoot region 105, midfootregion 125, and heel region 145, and between lateral side 185 and medialside 165 of article 100. In some embodiments, portions of midsole 151may be exposed around the periphery of article 100, as shown in FIG. 1.In other embodiments, midsole 151 may be completely covered by otherelements, such as material layers from upper 102. For example, in someembodiments, midsole 151 and/or other portions of upper 102 may bedisposed adjacent to a bootie 114 disposed inside of interior void 118of article 100. However, other embodiments may not include a bootie.

Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 1, article 100 may include a tongue 172 insome embodiments, which may be provided near or along a throat opening.In some embodiments, tongue 172 may be provided in or near an instepregion 110 of article 100. However, in other embodiments, tongue 172 maybe disposed along other portions of an article of footwear, or anarticle may not include a tongue.

In addition, as noted above, in different embodiments, article 100 mayinclude a tensioning system 150. Tensioning system 150 may comprisevarious components and systems for adjusting the size of an opening 130leading to interior void 118 and tightening (or loosening) upper 102around a wearer's foot. Some examples of different tensioning systemsthat can be used are disclosed in Beers et al., U.S. Patent PublicationNumber 2014/0070042 published Mar. 13, 2014, (previously U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 14/014,555, filed Aug. 30, 2013) and entitled“Motorized Tensioning System with Sensors” and Beers et al., U.S. Pat.No. 8,056,269, issued Nov. 15, 2011 (previously U.S. Patent PublicationNumber 2009/0272013, published Nov. 5, 2009) and entitled “Article ofFootwear with Lighting System” the disclosures of which are incorporatedherein by reference in their entirety.

Furthermore, the embodiments described herein may also include or referto techniques, concepts, features, elements, methods, and/or componentsfrom U.S. Pat. No. ______, published ______, (previously U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 14/723,972, filed May 28, 2015), titled “An ArticleOf Footwear And A Method Of Assembly Of The Article Of Footwear,”(currently Attorney Docket No. 51-4835), U.S. Pat. No. ______, published______, (previously U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/723,832, filedMay 28, 2015), titled “A Lockout Feature For A Control Device,”(currently Attorney Docket No. 51-4836), U.S. Pat. No. ______, published______, (previously U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/723,880, filedMay 28, 2015), titled “A Charging System for an Article of Footwear,”(currently Attorney Docket No. 51-4838), U.S. Pat. No. ______, published______, (previously U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/723,994, filedMay 28, 2015), titled “A Sole Plate for an Article of Footwear,”(currently Attorney Docket No. 51-4839), U.S. Pat. No. ______, published______, (previously U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/724,007, filedMay 28, 2015), titled “A Control Device for an Article of Footwear,”(currently Attorney Docket No. 51-4840), and U.S. Pat. No. ______,published ______, (previously U.S. patent application Ser. No.14/944,705, filed Dec. 1, 2015), titled “An Automated Tensioning SystemFor An Article Of Footwear,” (currently Attorney Docket No. 51-5017),the entirety of each application being herein incorporated by reference.

In some embodiments, tensioning system 150 may comprise one or morelaces, as well as a motorized tensioning device. A lace as used witharticle 100 may comprise any type of lacing material known in the art.Examples of laces that may be used include cables or fibers having a lowmodulus of elasticity as well as a high tensile strength. A lace maycomprise a single strand of material, or can comprise multiple strandsof material. An exemplary material for the lace is SPECTRA™,manufactured by Honeywell of Morris Township N.J., although other kindsof extended chain, high modulus polyethylene fiber materials can also beused as a lace. The arrangement of the lacing depicted in the Figures isonly intended to be exemplary and it will be understood that otherembodiments are not limited to a particular configuration for lacingelements.

Some embodiments may include one or more compartments, recesses,channels, or other receiving portions that are disposed throughoutvarious portions of article 100. For purposes of this disclosure, acompartment refers to a separate or distinct section or portion ofarticle 100. In some embodiments, a compartment can include asleeve-like region, a tunnel or tubing disposed within article 100,and/or a recess, cavity, pocket, chamber, slot, pouch, or other spaceconfigured to receive an object, element, or component. In someembodiments, during manufacture of article 100, one or more compartmentscan be included in article 100. For example, as will be discussedfurther below with respect to FIG. 9, article 100 can include a sleeveor elastic band disposed along an underside of upper 102. In someembodiments, the elastic band can receive or securely hold a component.

As noted above, in different embodiments, article 100 may include otherelements. Referring to FIG. 1, article 100 includes bootie 114 that isdisposed within upper 102. Bootie 114 may be removed, separated, ordetached from article 100 in some embodiments. In one embodiment, theposition or arrangement of bootie 114 may be adjusted within article100. In some embodiments, bootie 114 or other elements may be moved (orremoved) and then reinserted or replaced into article 100 (i.e.,returned to their original arrangement within article 100) in differentembodiments. This can occur after manufacture of article 100, asdiscussed further below. Bootie 114 and/or other such adjustable innerlining materials or elements (such as a tongue) associated with thedisclosed embodiments of article 100 may be referred to as “removableelements” for purposes of this description and the claims.

In one embodiment, bootie 114 can substantially surround or bound aninterior void 118 in article 100 and can be removed for insertion ofcomponents into article 100. For example, bootie 114 can be pulled orremoved from interior void 118 of upper 102. It should be understoodthat in other embodiments, article 100 may not include bootie 114, orthe configuration of bootie 114 may differ from that illustrated herein.In some embodiments, the removal of bootie 114 may expose or facilitateaccess regions within article 100 to one or more compartments. In oneembodiment, the displacement of bootie 114 and/or other removableelements (for example, a tongue) can expose different areas withininterior void 118.

Furthermore, it should be understood that the embodiments describedherein with respect to the compartments in FIG. 1, and in furtherfigures, may be applicable to articles that do not include a tensioningsystem. In other words, the method of manufacture where an article caninclude compartments, and/or the article, which includes suchcompartments, may be utilized in any type or configuration of footwearor article of apparel.

As noted above, some embodiments of article 100 may utilize variouskinds of devices for sending or providing information regarding use ofarticle 100 to a motorized tensioning or lacing system or othermechanisms. In different embodiments, an article may include provisionsfor detecting changes that can occur during use of article 100. Forexample, some embodiments can incorporate a one or more sensors forproviding information to a motorized tensioning system. One embodimentof a sensor device (“device”) 140 is depicted within sole structure 104of article 100 in FIG. 1. In some embodiments, device 140 may provide acurrent as an input to a control unit. In some cases, for example, apredetermined current may be known to correspond to a certain pressureor weight. In one embodiment, pressure sensors could be used under theinsoles of an article to indicate when the user is standing. In anotherembodiment, a motorized tensioning system can be programmed toautomatically loosen the tension of the lace when the user moves fromthe standing position to a sitting position. Such configurations may beuseful for older adults that may require low tension when sitting topromote blood circulation but high tension for safety when standing. Inother embodiments, various features of a motorized tensioning system mayturn on or off, or adjust the tension of a lace, in response toinformation from a sensor. In other embodiments, sensor devices may beused to provide information that can determine the activation of LED orother light sources. However, in other embodiments, it will beunderstood that the use of any sensor may be optional, or that thesensor as described herein may be used in an article that does notinclude a motorized tensioning system.

In different embodiments, the types of sensor devices providinginformation to systems associated with article 100 might include, butare not limited to, pressure sensors in shoe insoles to detect when thewearer is standing and/or rate of motion, bend indicators, straingauges, gyroscopes, and accelerometers. In some embodiments, instead ofor in addition to maintaining an initial tension, the sensor informationmay be used to establish a new target tension. For example, pressuresensors could be used to measure contact pressures of the upper of anarticle of footwear against the foot of a wearer and automaticallyadjust to achieve a desired pressure.

In some embodiments, sensor devices such as gyroscopes andaccelerometers could be incorporated into article 100. In someembodiments, an accelerometer and/or gyroscope could be used to detectsudden movement and/or position information that may be used as feedbackfor adjusting lace tension, for example. These sensors could also beimplemented to control periods of sleep/awake to extend battery life. Insome cases, for example, information from these sensors could be used toreduce lacing tension in a system when the user is inactive, andincrease lacing tension during periods of greater activity.

It is further contemplated that in some embodiments a user could beprovided with feedback through motor pulsing, which generates hapticfeedback for the user in the form of vibrations/sounds. Such provisionscould facilitate operation of a tensioning system directly, or providehaptic feedback for other systems in communication with a motorizedtensioning device.

In one embodiment, device 140 can detect changes in pressure or weight(i.e., a force). In some embodiments, device 140 may include variousmechanisms or components that can be utilized for measuring current,pressure, or other properties in article 100. In different embodiments,device 140 may detect and measure a relative change in a force orapplied load, detect and measure the rate of change in force, identifyforce thresholds and/or detect contact and/or touch.

In some embodiments, a sensor device can detect changes in pressure. Indifferent embodiments, the sensor may detect and measure a relativechange in a force or applied load, detect and measure the rate of changein force, identify force thresholds, and/or detect contact and/or touch.In one embodiment, shown in FIG. 1, device 140 comprises a forcesensitive resistor (herein referred to as an “FSR”). In some cases, theFSR may comprise a generally two-dimensional material. In someembodiments, device 140 may include a piezoelectric material. In otherembodiments, the sensor may have different dimensions and/or shapes indifferent embodiments and be disposed in other regions or portions ofarticle 100 than shown here. In some embodiments, the application ofpressure (for example, of a foot being inserted into article 100) canactivate the sensor, which in turn can trigger other events, such asautolacing.

As depicted in FIG. 1, an FSR (here, device 140) may be located orinserted along heel region 145 of article 100. In the embodiment of FIG.2, an isometric view of device 140 is depicted. Generally, in someembodiments, device 140 can include at least two film or substratelayers separated by a spacer or adhesive layer. Each of the layers canbe elongated in a substantially horizontal direction. In someembodiments, one or more layers of device 140 may comprise asubstantially flat sheet or panel or other two-dimensional material orstructure. The term “two-dimensional” as used throughout this detaileddescription and in the claims refers to any generally flat materialexhibiting a length and width that are substantially greater than athickness of the material. Although two-dimensional materials may havesmooth or generally untextured surfaces, some two-dimensional materialswill exhibit textures or other surface characteristics, such asdimpling, protrusions, ribs, or various patterns, for example. In otherembodiments, the geometry of device 140 could vary and could includevarious contours or features associated with parts of a foot, forexample, the heel region of a foot.

In different embodiments, device 140 can include actuation or conductiveregions 250 associated with one or more layers. In one embodiment,force-sensing resistor ink (e.g., an “FSR element”) is screen printed onor otherwise applied to a first layer. Thus, in some cases, device 140can include an FSR layer that includes FSR element(s). In someembodiments, a second layer receives or includes a conductive material.For example, in some cases, a series of electrode interdigitated“fingers” can be formed along the second layer. In one embodiment, thesecond layer comprises a conductive layer. In one embodiment, the twolayers can be assembled with the printed surfaces facing each other andcan be adhered together with a double-stick adhesive spacer around theperimeter. In some embodiments, device 140 comprises a resistor thatchanges its resistive value depending on how much it is pressed orcompressed. In some embodiments, one layer can deflect and yield to anapplied force, forming an area of contact between the FSR element andthe circuit. As the force is increased, the area of contact alsoincreases and the output becomes more conductive in differentembodiments. However, in other embodiments, device 140 may operate inany manner known in the art in which a device comprises a mechanismwherein upon the application of normal force on the device, theelectrical resistance changes.

For purposes of reference, device 140 can include different portions. Asshown in FIG. 2, device 140 comprises an active sensor portion (“activeportion”) 210 joined to a tail portion 220. Tail portion 220 can includetraces in some embodiments. In addition, in some embodiments, tailportion 220 may be further joined to a connector portion 230, though inother embodiments, device 140 may not include connector portion 230. Inone embodiment, connector portion 230 can comprise an AMP or amplifierconnector with a receptacle (female) ending. In some embodiments, ahousing protects the contacts of connector portion 230. In oneembodiment, connector portion 230 can be joined to an element orcomponent of the automated tensioning system (see FIG. 1). It should beunderstood that in other embodiments, device 140 can include anyadditional or alternative semiconductive materials, conductors,adhesives, graphics or overlays, and connectors.

Active portion 210 can differ in size and shape relative to tail portion220. For example, in some embodiments, active portion 210 has adifferent width from tail portion 220. In FIG. 2, active portion 210 hasa sensor width 212 that is larger than a tail width 214 of tail portion220. However, in other embodiments, the width of active portion 210 canvary, where sensor width 212 is the maximum width associated with activeportion 210 and tail width 214 is the maximum width associated with tailportion 220. Furthermore, tail portion 220 comprises an elongatedportion 221 and an end portion 227 joined along an intermediate portion225. In some embodiments, the width associated with elongated portion221 is substantially narrow relative to the width of intermediateportion 225, and can be narrower than the width of end portion 227.

Thus, it should be understood that portions comprising device 140 mayhave different dimensions and/or shapes in different embodiments. Forexample, in FIG. 2, active portion 210 has a substantially elongated,oval shape. However, in other embodiments, the dimensions and/or shapeof active portion 210 or tail portion 220 may differ, including, but notlimited to, rectangular, oblong, square, circular, elliptical, or otherregular or irregular shapes. In some embodiments, the electricallyactive area associated with active portion 210 can be larger or smallerthan described herein.

In order to provide the reader with a greater understanding of theembodiments, FIG. 3 depicts an exploded view of an embodiment of device140. As noted above, device 140 includes a plurality of layers. In theembodiment of FIG. 3, device 140 comprises a top substrate layer 310, afirst adhesive layer 320, and a bottom substrate layer 330. It should beunderstood that in different embodiments, top substrate layer 310 maycomprise either an FSR layer or a conductor layer, or another type ofFSR substrate layer. Similarly, in some embodiments, bottom substratelayer 330 may comprise either an FSR layer or a conductor layer, oranother type of FSR substrate layer.

In some embodiments, first adhesive layer 320 is disposed between topsubstrate layer 310 and bottom substrate layer 330. In addition, in someembodiments, device 140 can include a kind of surface or backing to pushagainst such that when a force is applied to the device, there issupport provided. For example, in some embodiments, a second adhesivelayer 340 is also included in device 140. However, it should beunderstood that other embodiments of device 140 may comprise fewer or agreater number of layers. In different embodiments, the substrate layersof device 140 are mounted to a rigid or semi-rigid backed surfacecomprising second adhesive layer 340. Furthermore, in some embodiments,second adhesive layer 340 provides an outermost surface layer of device140. In FIG. 3, second adhesive layer 340 is disposed beneath oradjacent to bottom substrate layer 330.

In some embodiments, first adhesive layer 320 can act as a spacerbetween top substrate layer 310 and bottom substrate layer 330. In otherwords, in some embodiments, the two substrate layers (i.e., topsubstrate layer 310 and bottom substrate layer 330) can be spaced apartusing various thicknesses of spacer material (here, first adhesive layer320), forming an air gap between the two substrate layers in some cases.In different embodiments, first adhesive layer 320 includes or bounds anexposed region 350, in which no spacer material is present in firstadhesive layer 320. In some embodiments, first adhesive layer 320comprises a substantially narrow or elongated material extending alongthe perimeter of device 140, similar to a border corresponding at leastpartially to the shape of top substrate layer 310 and/or bottomsubstrate layer 330.

As a result of the inclusion of exposed region 350, in some embodiments,there may be portions of top substrate layer 310 and bottom substratelayer 330 that directly face one another. In FIG. 3, it can be seen thata top outer surface 312 of top substrate layer 310 faces upward andprovides an outermost surface of device 140. Furthermore, a top innersurface 314 of top substrate layer 310 (the surface that is opposite totop outer surface 312) faces toward the remainder of device 140. Inaddition, top inner surface 314 of top substrate layer 310 can facedirectly—and in some embodiments contact—a bottom inner surface 332 ofbottom substrate layer 330. In addition, bottom outer surface 334 ofbottom substrate layer 330 can contact or face toward second adhesivelayer 340 in some embodiments.

In different embodiments, first adhesive layer 320 can comprisedifferent materials. In one embodiment, first adhesive layer 320 caninclude a double-stick adhesive. In different embodiments, it can beunderstood that one or more of the height or thickness of first adhesivelayer 320, an inside diameter or width of first adhesive layer 320, theopen area (here, exposed region 350) of first adhesive layer 320, aswell as the thickness of top substrate layer 310, can mechanicallydetermine the amount of force required for the two surfaces comprisingtop inner surface 314 of top substrate layer 310 and bottom innersurface 332 of bottom substrate layer 330 to come into contact.

While first adhesive layer 320 is illustrated as being positionedbetween top substrate layer 310 and bottom substrate layer 330 in FIG.3, it should be understood that in other embodiments, other materials ormechanisms may be used to provide spacing between the two substratelayers. For example, in some embodiments, dielectric dot patterns canalso be used for spacing the two layers apart, where the frequency orspacing and height of the dots can help determine the amount of forceneeded for activation. In one embodiment, the closer the dots are toeach other, the more force is required to activate the sensor. In otherembodiments, any other means of providing spacing between the twosubstrate layers known in the art may be utilized.

Furthermore, in different embodiments, one or more layers of device 140can include apertures or openings formed within the material comprisingthe layer. For example, in FIG. 3, it can be seen that bottom substratelayer 330 includes a first aperture 336 formed along a portion of theexploded elongated portion 221 of tail portion 220, and second adhesivelayer 340 includes a second aperture 346 formed along a portion of theexploded elongated portion 221 of tail portion 220. In some embodiments,the shape of each aperture can vary. In some embodiments, an aperturecan have any shape, including, but not limited to, rectangular, oblong,square, circular, elliptical, or other regular or irregular shapes. InFIG. 3, first aperture 336 has a substantially square or rectangularshape, and second aperture 346 has a substantially rectangular shape. Indifferent embodiments, bottom substrate layer 330 and second adhesivelayer 340 may be positioned such that the apertures are aligned whendevice 140 is assembled. In other words, in some embodiments, firstaperture 336 can be disposed such that it overlaps or extends across theopening provided by second aperture 346. In other embodiments, there maybe additional apertures formed in any of top substrate layer 310, bottomsubstrate layer 330, first adhesive layer 320, and/or second adhesivelayer 340. However, in some embodiments, there may be no apertures indevice 140, or any of top substrate layer 310, bottom substrate layer330, first adhesive layer 320, and/or second adhesive layer 340 may besubstantially continuous.

In addition, in different embodiments, device 140 may include provisionsfor covering or protecting portions of device 140. As will be discussedfurther below with respect to FIGS. 9-12, an elastic membrane (forexample, a latex or rubber material) comprising a cover portion 360 canbe incorporated into or attached to device 140 in some embodiments. Inother embodiments, cover portion 360 can comprise any othersubstantially resilient and elastic material. As shown in FIG. 3, coverportion 360 can be disposed between bottom substrate layer 330 andsecond adhesive layer 340 in some embodiments. In one embodiment, coverportion 360 is located such that, when device 140 is assembled, coverportion 360 extends between and covers the opening associated with firstaperture 336. However, it should be understood that in otherembodiments, cover portion 360 can be disposed along any other location.Furthermore, the size of cover portion 360 can be increased or decreasedto correspond to the size of any aperture formed in device 140 indifferent embodiments. As will be discussed with respect to FIGS. 15 and16, in some embodiments, cover portion 360 can alternatively be locatedalong an outermost surface of device 140, adjacent to second aperture346, and be sized and dimensioned to cover the opening associated withsecond aperture 346.

In some embodiments, FSR-type devices can include provisions for routingor permitting air to flow from one region of the device to anotherregion of the device. In different embodiments, an air vent or othertype of conduit can be formed through the device. In one embodiment, anair vent can run from the open active area associated with activeportion 210 and down the entire length or only a portion of tail portion220. In some cases, air can be routed such that it exits out to theexternal atmosphere. In different embodiments, a vent or conduit canhelp improve pressure equilibrium with the environment, as well asfacilitate an even loading and unloading of the device. However, as willbe described herein, in some embodiments, air can be routed and/ordisplaced through device 140 without physically exiting from theinterior of device 140.

In different embodiments, device 140 can include provisions for helpingcirculate or move air or other gaseous fluids through device 140. Insome embodiments, a continuous flow pathway or conduit can be formed indevice 140, helping air located within device 140 to move throughdifferent portions of device 140 as it actuates and is released andreturns to a neutral state. In one embodiment, the inclusion of a flowpathway can improve the repeatability of the sensor device to variancein ambient air pressure and increases the response time of the sensor.

Referring to FIG. 4, a top-down view of device 140 (as assembled) isdepicted as well as a cross-sectional view of a portion of elongatedportion 221. In the cross-sectional view, top substrate layer 310 isshown as an outermost layer, and is disposed directly above firstadhesive layer 320 along a direction substantially aligned with avertical axis 470. First adhesive layer 320 is located between topsubstrate layer 310 and bottom substrate layer 330. Furthermore, bottomsubstrate layer 330 is positioned between first adhesive layer 320 andsecond adhesive layer 340, as noted earlier. The cross-sectional viewalso illustrates first aperture 336 formed in bottom substrate layer330, extending along a direction substantially aligned with a lateralaxis 490, between a first bottom side portion 410 and a second bottomside portion 420. Furthermore, second aperture 346 can be seen formed insecond adhesive layer 340, extending along a direction substantiallyaligned with a lateral axis 490, between a first adhesive side portion430 and a second adhesive side portion 440.

As described above, in some embodiments, the size of first aperture 336can differ from that of second aperture 346. In FIG. 4, a first width480 of first aperture 336 is substantially smaller than a second width482 of second aperture 346. In one embodiment, the horizontalcross-sectional surface area associated with first aperture 336 issmaller than that of second aperture 346. In other embodiments, thewidths of each aperture can be substantially similar. In anotherembodiment, second width 482 may be smaller than first width 480. Insome embodiments, due to the different sizes of each aperture, it can beseen that a portion of bottom outer surface 334 of bottom substratelayer 330 can provide an outermost surface of device 140. In otherwords, while second adhesive layer 340 provides a majority of the loweroutermost surface of device 140, in some embodiments, because secondaperture 346 is larger than first aperture 336, second aperture 346 canexpose a portion of bottom substrate layer 330 from below.

In addition, as noted earlier, the inclusion of first adhesive layer 320provides a space between the two substrate layers, forming a gap orchannel 460 that has a height substantially similar to a thickness offirst adhesive layer 320. Channel 460 can thus be located between topsubstrate layer 310 and bottom substrate layer 330, associated with theexposed region of first adhesive layer 320 (see FIG. 3). Thecross-sectional view illustrates channel 460 extending between a firstspacer side portion 462 and a second spacer side portion 464, along adirection substantially aligned with a lateral axis 490. Channel 460 hasa third width 484 in FIG. 4. In some embodiments, the size of channel460 can differ from that of either first aperture 336 or second aperture346. In FIG. 4, first width 480 of first aperture 336 is substantiallysmaller than third width 484 of channel 460. Similarly, second width 482of second aperture 346 is smaller than third width 484 of channel 460.In one embodiment, the horizontal cross-sectional surface areaassociated with channel 460 is smaller than that of either firstaperture 336 or second aperture 346. In other embodiments, the width ofan aperture can be substantially similar to the width of channel 460. Inanother embodiment, third width 484 may be smaller than either firstwidth 480 or second width 482. In some embodiments, the relative sizingof channel 460, first aperture 336, and second aperture 346 canfacilitate the flow of air through device 140, as will be describedbelow.

In some embodiments, the “stacking” or positioning of channel 460 overan aperture (such as first aperture 336 or second aperture 346) canallow a continuous opening or space to be formed within device 140 in adirection substantially aligned with vertical axis 470. In other words,in some embodiments, a continuous shaft (“shaft”) 450 comprising thevolume of both a portion of channel 460 aligned directly above firstaperture 336, as well as the volume of first aperture 336, can extendthrough device 140 in a substantially vertical direction, allowing fluidcommunication between channel 460 and first aperture 336. Shaft 450 canbe bounded by the surfaces and sidewalls of portions of differentlayers.

In some embodiments, device 140 can include provisions for airflow tomove through shaft 450 in a particular direction. In one embodiment,shaft 450 can lead to or include a valve opening 402. Valve opening 402may comprise an opening or passageway formed in a lower surface ofdevice 140. In FIG. 4, valve opening 402 is associated with a bottommostregion of shaft 450. As noted above, in some embodiments, a portion ofbottom substrate layer 330 can provide an outermost or lower surface ofdevice 140. In some embodiments, valve opening 402 can be in fluidcommunication with or disposed adjacent to second aperture 346.Furthermore, second aperture 346 can also comprise an opening orpassageway formed in a lower or outermost surface of device 140. In FIG.4, second aperture 346 has a port opening 404, which can provide a kindof inlet for device 140.

However, as shown in FIG. 4, in some embodiments, cover portion 360 canbe disposed between a portion of bottom substrate layer 330 and secondadhesive layer 340. In some embodiments, cover portion 360 extendsentirely across the space associated with valve opening 402, such thatvalve opening 402 is blocked or sealed by cover portion 360. In otherwords, in some embodiments, cover portion 360 can prevent or minimizecommunication of fluid from within shaft 450 into second aperture 346,or from the external environment and into shaft 450. In one embodiment,cover portion 360 creates a seal between valve opening 402 and secondaperture 346. While cover portion 360 is shown extended across theentire width of elongated portion 221 in FIG. 4, it should be understoodthat cover portion 360 may have any width or size. In other words, coverportion 360 may be smaller in size in other embodiments, so long as itssize is sufficient to fully cover valve opening 402.

In some embodiments, the conduit that provides passage to air or fluidthrough device 140 can extend through active portion 210 and into tailportion 220. For purposes of reference, it can be understood thatconduit comprises both a “horizontal passageway” and shaft 450(discussed above). The horizontal passageway can be in fluidcommunication with shaft 450 in some embodiments.

Referring to FIG. 5, one embodiment of a horizontal passageway 550 indevice 140 is depicted. Horizontal passageway 550 can extend from activeportion 210 to tail portion 220 along a plane aligned with alongitudinal axis 480 in some embodiments. Furthermore, in someembodiments, horizontal passageway 550 can comprise the space or openingassociated with the gap formed by the inclusion of first adhesive layer320 between top substrate layer 310 and bottom substrate layer 330(i.e., through exposed region 350 of first adhesive layer 320).

As noted above, in some embodiments, a force may be applied to activeportion 210 (represented in FIG. 5 by two large arrows pointingdownward). In some cases, air disposed within a chamber 500 bounded bythe interior sidewalls of first adhesive layer 320 associated withactive portion 210 can flow or otherwise move from within chamber 500.For example, when actuation occurs, top substrate layer 310 can bepushed inward toward bottom substrate layer 330. In one embodiment, thiscan lead to a decreased volume in chamber 500 in some embodiments, whichcan push or expel air away from chamber 500. In other words, whereas thechamber has a first volume in the neutral state, and a second volume inthe actuated state, in some embodiments, the first volume of the chamberis greater than the second volume of the chamber. In some embodiments,air can move such that it flows out of active portion 210. In oneembodiment, air can exit through an outlet 510. In some embodiments,outlet 510 comprises a passage or opening joining chamber 500 of activeportion 210 with channel 460 of tail portion 220, allowing air tocommunicate between active portion 210 and tail portion 220. Once airflows into tail portion 220, air can be routed into other regions of theconduit in different embodiments.

Referring now to the cutaway view of tail portion 220 depicted in FIG.6, it can be seen that in some embodiments, air can travel or move fromthe horizontal passageway (see FIG. 5) and into shaft 450 (describedabove in detail with respect to FIG. 4). Thus, in some embodiments, aircan travel along a first flowpath through device 140 corresponding tothe horizontal passageway (shown in FIG. 5), and continue to move alonga second flowpath corresponding to the vertically oriented shaft 450 asshown in FIG. 6. In other words, in different embodiments, air can movein a substantially continuous manner from the active portion and intothe tail portion when compression of the active portion occurs.

One embodiment of the flowpaths for air provided by a conduit 700 indevice 140 is illustrated in the schematic cross section of FIG. 7. InFIG. 7, active portion 210 is joined to tail portion 220. Chamber 500extends through active portion 210 in the space or cavity that occursbetween top substrate layer 310 and bottom substrate layer 330 whendevice 140 is in the uncompressed or neutral state. Arrows indicatingthe flowpaths are shown in a region where the thickness of activeportion 210 is undergoing a deformation, and is in the process oftransitioning from the neutral (uncompressed) state to the actuated(compressed) state. In other words, top substrate layer 310 may bepushed downward and decrease the volume of chamber 500 as device 140 isactuated or a force is applied on active portion 210. In someembodiments, as noted earlier, air can be pushed or expelled outwardtoward tail portion 220 via outlet 510. In some embodiments, airflowcontinues along the horizontal flowpath and can reach the region ofdevice 140 that is associated with shaft 450. While in differentembodiments some air can continue onward in a direction substantiallyaligned with longitudinal axis 480 and into a portion of channel 460that is disposed closer to connector portion (see FIG. 2), it can beseen that some, most, or substantially all of the air moving from activeportion 210 can be routed into the vertical flowpath associated withshaft 450 in some embodiments.

In some embodiments, as air moves in a substantially downward directionfrom channel 460 and into first aperture 336, some of the air cancontact an inwardly facing surface 710 of cover portion 360. As air flowincreases, the pressure exerted by the air against inwardly facingsurface 710 of cover portion 360 can increase. In some embodiments, ifthere is a sufficient amount of air pressure, cover portion 360 mayundergo an elastic deformation, as will be discussed further below withrespect to FIGS. 9-12. In other words, in some embodiments, the elasticmembrane comprising cover portion 360 can deform in response to anincreased air pressure in shaft 450.

Furthermore, as described above with respect to FIG. 1, in differentembodiments, device 140 can be utilized within a sole structure of anarticle of footwear. Referring now to FIG. 8, sole structure 104 isdepicted. In different embodiments, sole structure 104 can includeprovisions for receiving, connecting, or otherwise incorporating device140. In FIG. 8, sole structure 104 is shown with a cavity 810 formedwithin heel region 145. In some embodiments, cavity 810 can beconfigured to receive device 140. In one embodiment, cavity 810 can besized and dimensioned to allow device 140 to be inserted into and/orsnugly fitted into cavity 810. In one embodiment, cavity 810 may includea height sufficient to completely receive or enclose the sides orthickness of device 140, such that the outermost top surface of device140 is flush with the remainder of sole structure 104. In someembodiments, a substantial entirety of device 140 can be received withinsole structure 104. However, in other embodiments, only a portion ofdevice 140 may be inserted within sole structure 104.

In different embodiments, cavity 810 can include provisions foraccommodating changes in the size of cover portion and/or deformationassociated with the cover portion (as will be described further below).In the magnified side view of FIG. 8, an embodiment of cavity 810 isshown in greater deal. It can be seen that in some embodiments, cavity810 can include a kind of “cathedral floor” or recess 820. In someembodiments, recess 820 can be positioned to correspond with the valveopening of device 140 (see FIG. 4) when device 140 is installed incavity 810 of sole structure 104. In one embodiment, recess 820 is sizedand dimensioned to permit a free expansion of the cover portion whendevice 140 is experiencing maximum air pressure in the shaft, as will bediscussed with respect to FIGS. 9-12.

Referring now to FIG. 9, a schematic of a longitudinal cross-sectiontaken along longitudinal axis 180 in FIG. 8 of device 140 in the neutralstate is depicted, and in FIG. 10 a schematic of a longitudinalcross-section taken along longitudinal axis 180 in FIG. 8 of device 140in the actuated state is depicted. In FIG. 9, it can be seen that in theneutral state, air pressure is generally evenly distributed throughoutthe different regions of conduit 700. In some embodiments, the airpressure associated with shaft 450 is minimal in the neutral state.Cover portion 360, disposed adjacent to and covering valve opening 402,is in a flattened configuration. Inwardly facing surface 710 of coverportion 360 can be understood to have a first surface area in theneutral state.

When a force is applied to device 140, the air pressure can beredistributed in some cases. In some embodiments, air pressureassociated with shaft 450 can increase. As the airflow exerts anincreasingly greater force against inwardly facing surface 710, it canbe seen that in some embodiments, cover portion 360 can deform. In oneembodiment, shown in FIG. 10, cover portion 360 can stretch and extendoutward. Initially, cover portion 360 can bulge downward into the spaceassociated with second aperture 346. As the air pressure increases, thedegree of deformation of cover portion 360 can also increase. In someembodiments, cover portion 360 may expand or balloon downward beyond theperiphery of device 140, such that inwardly facing surface 710 forms asubstantially concave surface. Furthermore, inwardly facing surface 710of cover portion 360 can be understood to have a second surface area inthe actuated state that is substantially greater than the first surfacearea of cover portion 360 in the neutral state.

Thus, in different embodiments, when device 140 is installed in solestructure 104, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, cover portion 360 can deform,expand, and/or extend into the space associated with recess 820 ofcavity 810. In some embodiments, recess 820 can be configured to receiveand/or accommodate the changing shape and size of cover portion 360. Inother words, during use of device 140, as pressure is applied on device140 by a foot (for example), air can be routed or moved through device140 along the flowpaths described herein.

For purposes of clarity, another view of the deformation process ofcover portion 360 is depicted in the lateral cross-sections of FIGS. 11and 12. In FIG. 11, a longitudinal cross-section taken along lateralaxis 490 of FIG. 8 of device 140 in the neutral state is depicted, andin FIG. 12 a schematic of a longitudinal cross-section taken alonglateral axis 490 of FIG. 8 of device 140 in the actuated state isdepicted. As noted earlier, in the neutral state, air pressure isgenerally evenly distributed throughout the different regions of theconduit. In some embodiments, the air pressure associated with shaft 450is minimal in the neutral state. Cover portion 360, disposed adjacent toand covering valve opening 402, is in a flattened configuration. Whennormal forces are applied against the active portion of device 140, theair pressure can be redistributed in some embodiments. In someembodiments, air pressure associated with shaft 450 can increase.

As airflow exerts an increasingly greater force against inwardly facingsurface 710, it can be seen that in some embodiments, cover portion 360can deform. In one embodiment, shown in FIG. 12, cover portion 360 canstretch and extend outward. Initially, cover portion 360 can bulgedownward into the space associated with second aperture 346. As the airpressure exerted against inwardly facing surface 710 of cover portion360 increases, the degree of deformation of cover portion 360 can alsoincrease. In some embodiments, cover portion 360 may expand or balloondownward beyond the periphery of device 140, such that inwardly facingsurface 710 forms a substantially concave surface.

Furthermore, as noted above, in different embodiments, when device 140is installed in sole structure 104, as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, coverportion 360 can deform, expand, and/or extend into the space associatedwith recess 820 of cavity 810.

Thus, in some embodiments, it can be understood that cover portion 360can comprise an expandable membrane, forming a sealed area over valveopening 402 of shaft 450. The inclusion of an elastic material canprovide device 140 with an adjustable mechanism to receive the air thatmay be displaced when a force is applied to device 140. In someembodiments, the use of cover portion 360 can form a substantiallywater-resistant or waterproof seal and protect the interior of device140 from external particles or other materials that may potentiallyaffect the use of device 140 in an undesirable manner. Furthermore, anelastic membrane extending across the opening formed in the lowersurface of device 140 may help alleviate “pancaking” of the sensor byproviding a restoring force in device 140. In other words, because coverportion 360 is made of an elastic material, once the force being appliedon the active portion is released and the chamber space is restored, insome embodiments, cover portion 360 can revert to a collapsed orflattened configuration, pushing the air back into the flowpath in theopposite direction, and facilitating the expansion of the chamber to itsoriginal shape and/or size. This process is depicted schematically inthe longitudinal cross sections of FIGS. 13 and 14.

In FIGS. 13 and 14, another embodiment of a flowpath for air provided bya conduit in device 140 when the force is removed is illustrated. InFIG. 13, arrows indicating the flowpath during the actuation state areshown. As active portion 210 undergoes a deformation, top substratelayer 310 is pushed downward, decreasing the volume of chamber 500. Asdescribed earlier, in some embodiments, some, most, or substantially allof the air moving from active portion 210 can be routed along horizontalpassageway 550 into the vertical flowpath associated with shaft 450.However, when the force is removed, active portion 210 and chamber 500can return to their configuration in the uncompressed or neutral state.

In some embodiments, as the force is removed, air can move away fromshaft 450 in a substantially upward direction from first aperture 336into channel 460. Thus, in some embodiments, at least some of the airthat was previously pressing against cover portion 360 can move awayfrom cover portion 360 and toward chamber 500. In some embodiments, asair continues to move away from shaft 450 and disperses into and throughchannel 460, chamber 500 can expand as air pressure increases in chamber500. In some embodiments, cover portion 360 may elastically return to aflattened configuration. In other words, in some embodiments, theelastic membrane comprising cover portion 360 can collapse back to itsconfiguration prior to the deformation in response to a decrease in airpressure in shaft 450.

In different embodiments, the placement of cover portion 360 betweenbottom substrate layer 330 and second adhesive layer 340 allows coverportion 360 to be secured through the adhesive bond formed between thetwo layers. However, in other embodiments, a cover portion can bedisposed along other regions or layers of device 140. For example, insome embodiments, cover portion 360 can be placed adjacent to portopening 404, on an outermost surface of second adhesive layer 340,referred to herein as an outer adhesive surface 1510. Referring to FIGS.15 and 16, an alternative embodiment is depicted where cover portion 360is attached to outer adhesive surface 1510. In FIGS. 15 and 16, a shaft1550 is depicted extending in a substantially vertical direction, fromchannel 460, into first aperture 336, through valve opening 402, andinto second aperture 346. In other words, in some embodiments, the“stacking” or positioning of channel 460 over an aperture (such as firstaperture 336 or second aperture 346) can allow a continuous opening orspace to be formed within device 140 in a direction substantiallyaligned with vertical axis 470 that is larger than shaft 450 describedpreviously. In other words, in some embodiments, shaft 1550 comprisingthe volume of a portion of the channel aligned directly above firstaperture 336, the volume of first aperture 336, as well as the volume ofsecond aperture 346, can extend through device 140 in a substantiallyvertical direction, allowing fluid communication between channel 460,first aperture 336, and second aperture 346. Shaft 1550 can be boundedby the surfaces and sidewalls of portions of different layers.

In addition, in some embodiments, device 140 may include additionalprovisions for securing cover portion 360 on device 140. In oneembodiment, as shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, cover portion 360 can bedisposed between a portion of second adhesive layer 340 and a securinglayer 1520. In other embodiments, device 140 may not include securinglayer 1520, and cover portion 360 may be secured to second adhesivelayer 340 through other means. For example, cover portion 360 mayinclude an adhesive along one side of the cover portion that bonds coverportion 360 to outer adhesive surface 1510 of second adhesive layer 340.

In addition, in some embodiments, cover portion 360 extends entirelyacross the space associated with port opening 404, such that portopening 404 is blocked or sealed by cover portion 360. In other words,in some embodiments, cover portion 360 can prevent or minimizecommunication of fluid from within shaft 1550 out of device 140, or fromthe external environment and into shaft 1550. In one embodiment, coverportion 360 creates a seal between port opening 404 and the externalenvironment. While cover portion 360 is shown extending across theentire width of elongated portion 221 in FIGS. 15 and 16, it should beunderstood that cover portion 360 may have any width or size. In otherwords, cover portion 360 may be smaller in size in other embodiments, solong as its size is sufficient to fully cover port opening 404.

In different embodiments, the horizontal passageway described herein canprovide a first flowpath through device 140, and the shaft as describedwith respect to FIGS. 15 and 16 can provide a second flowpath throughdevice 140. Thus, in some embodiments, the air pressure can exert aforce against cover portion 360 when cover portion 360 is locatedagainst outer adhesive surface 1510. In FIGS. 15 and 16, the expansionor deformation process of cover portion 360 as described earlier isshown. However, in FIG. 15, it can be seen that cover portion 360expands from a flattened configuration as aligned with port opening 404rather than valve opening 402.

In addition, in different embodiments, device 140 can include provisionsfor securing cover portion 360 to second adhesive layer 340. Forexample, in some cases, though adhesive may be applied on cover portion360, the bond can be improved by a securing layer that is wrapped aroundthe cover portion. In some embodiments, a securing layer can increasethe stability of the cover portion when shearing forces within thefootwear are exerted on the cover portion.

As an example, FIGS. 17 and 18 depict the attachment of securing layer1520 around elongated portion 221. In FIG. 17, a folded sheet ofmaterial comprising securing layer 1520 is shown adjacent to device 140.In FIG. 18, securing layer 1520 has been arranged around elongatedportion 221 and bonded to the outermost surface of elongated portion221. It can be seen that securing layer 1520 also includes a thirdaperture 1710. When securing layer 1520 is positioned on device 140 andsubstantially surrounds elongated portion 221, third aperture 1710 canalign with the port opening and cover portion 360. In other words, thirdaperture 1710 can be sized and dimensioned to surround and bound theport opening such that the region of cover portion 360 that extendsacross the port opening remains free and exposed. Thus, cover portion360 can continue to expand and/or deform as described herein aftersecuring layer 1520 has been joined to device 140.

In some embodiments, securing layer 1520 can comprise various materials.In one embodiment, securing layer 1520 comprises a polyimide tape with ahole (i.e., third aperture 1710) that is wrapped around device 140 andacross a portion of cover portion 360. In other embodiments, securinglayer 1520 can comprise any type of tape or film known in the art foruse with electronics or other instruments.

Thus, in different embodiments, the flowpaths described herein can beutilized to move air through the sensor device in different ways. Forpurposes of illustration, FIG. 19 provides a flow chart depicting onemethod of moving air through a sensor device (labeled as 1910), wherethe sensor device includes a top substrate layer, a first adhesivelayer, and a bottom substrate layer, as well as an active portion and atail portion. In one embodiment, the method includes a first step 1920comprising moving air from the active portion into a horizontalpassageway formed in the sensor device when the active portion iscompressed. In some embodiments, a second step 1930 comprises moving airfrom the active portion to a vertical channel disposed in the bottomsubstrate layer in the tail portion. Furthermore, in some embodiments, athird step 1940 can comprise expanding an elastic membrane that isexposed to increased air pressure.

In other embodiments, the method can further include returning air to achamber formed in the active portion when the active portion is nolonger compressed. In addition, in some embodiments, first step 1920 ofmoving air from the active portion into the horizontal passageway canfurther comprise moving air from a chamber that is formed between thetop substrate layer and the bottom substrate layer within the activeportion and into a channel that is formed in the tail portion. In oneembodiment, the method may also include contracting the elastic membranewhen the air returns to the chamber in the active portion. Furthermore,in some embodiments, third step 1940 comprising expanding the elasticmembrane may further include the elastic membrane expanding in adirection that is away from the tail portion and toward a cavity that isformed in a sole structure of an article of footwear.

In different embodiments, any of the components described herein couldbe disposed in any other portions of an article, including variousregions of the upper and/or sole structure. In some cases, somecomponent parts (such as the connector portion, etc.) could be disposedin one portion of an article and other component parts (such as theactive portion, etc.) could be disposed in another, different, portion.The location of one or more component parts may be selected according tovarious factors including, but not limited to, size constraints,manufacturing constraints, aesthetic preferences, optimal design andfunctional placement, ease of removability or accessibility relative toother portions of the article, as well as possibly other factors.

It should be understood that the embodiments and features describedherein are not limited to a particular user interface or application foroperating a motorized tensioning device or a tensioning system.Furthermore, the embodiments here are intended to be exemplary, andother embodiments could incorporate any additional substrate layers oradhesive bonds. The type of FSR utilized in the footwear can be selectedaccording to various factors including, ease of use, aestheticpreferences of the designer, software design costs, operating propertiesof the system, as well as possibly other factors. Furthermore, a varietyof products, including apparel (e.g., shirts, pants, footwear), mayincorporate an embodiment of the control device described herein, aswell as other types of articles, such as bed coverings, table coverings,towels, flags, tents, sails, and parachutes, or articles with industrialpurposes that include automotive and aerospace applications, filtermaterials, medical textiles, geotextiles, agrotextiles, and industrialapparel.

While various embodiments have been described, the description isintended to be exemplary, rather than limiting, and it will be apparentto those of ordinary skill in the art that many more embodiments andimplementations are possible that are within the scope of theembodiments. Although many possible combinations of features are shownin the accompanying figures and discussed in this detailed description,many other combinations of the disclosed features are possible. Anyfeature of any embodiment may be used in combination with or substitutedfor any other feature or element in any other embodiment unlessspecifically restricted. Therefore, it will be understood that any ofthe features shown and/or discussed in the present disclosure may beimplemented together in any suitable combination. Accordingly, theembodiments are not to be restricted except in light of the attachedclaims and their equivalents. Also, various modifications and changesmay be made within the scope of the attached claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. An article of footwear, the article of footwearcomprising: a sole structure with a cavity formed in the sole structure;a force sensitive resistor including an active portion joined to a tailportion; the force sensitive resistor including a plurality of layers,each of the plurality of layers comprising a substantiallytwo-dimensional material; the plurality of layers comprising a topsubstrate layer, a first adhesive layer, and a bottom substrate layer,wherein the first adhesive layer is disposed between the top substratelayer and the bottom substrate layer; a shaft extending in asubstantially vertical direction through at least two of the pluralityof layers in the tail portion, the shaft leading to a first openingformed in an outermost surface of the force sensitive resistor, thefirst opening being covered by an elastic membrane; a horizontalpassageway extending in a substantially horizontal direction from theactive portion to the tail portion, the horizontal passageway being influid communication with the shaft; the elastic membrane beingconfigured to deform and expand in a direction away from the firstadhesive layer and thereby transition from a neutral state to anactuated state; and the elastic membrane including a first surface areain the neutral state and a second surface area in the actuated state,the second surface area being greater than the first surface area. 2.The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the cavity includes a recessthat is sized and dimensioned to accommodate the expansion of theelastic membrane in the actuated state.
 3. The article of footwear ofclaim 1, wherein the active portion includes a chamber formed betweenthe top substrate layer and the bottom substrate layer, and wherein thechamber has a first volume in the neutral state and a second volume inthe actuated state, and wherein the first volume is greater than thesecond volume.
 4. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein aninwardly facing surface of the elastic membrane is substantially flat inthe neutral state and wherein the inwardly facing surface of the elasticmembrane is substantially concave in the actuated state.
 5. The articleof footwear of claim 1, wherein the force sensitive resistor transitionsfrom the neutral state to the actuated state when a vertical force isapplied to the active portion, and wherein air pressure exerted againstthe elastic membrane is greater in the actuated state relative to theneutral state.
 6. The article of footwear of claim 5, wherein theelastic membrane is configured to transition from an expandedconfiguration to a flattened configuration after the vertical force isremoved.